Flying
Using the Jumpseat System
How to reposition to any airport in the Air Canada Virtual route network
What is the Jumpseat System?
The Jumpseat system allows pilots to reposition to any airport in the Virtual Air Canada Airline route network without having to fly there first. This feature simulates a pilot traveling as a passenger on commercial flights to reach a new starting point for their next flight assignment.Using the Jumpseat system is completely free and can be used as often as needed to reposition yourself across the network.
When to Use the Jumpseat
There are several scenarios where using the Jumpseat system makes sense:Starting from a Preferred Airport
Change your starting location to an airport you prefer flying from
After Completing a One-Way Flight
Reposition after landing at a destination where you don’t want to start your next flight
Joining Group Flights
Quickly join other pilots for special events or group flights departing from specific airports
Exploring New Routes
Position yourself at airports that offer routes you haven’t flown before
How to Use the Jumpseat
1
Access the Jumpseat Feature
- Open the Pilot Hub application
- Navigate to “Flight Centre” in the main menu
- Select “Book Flights”
- Look for the “Jumpseat” option or button
2
Select Destination Airport
- Browse or search for your desired destination airport
- The complete list of airports in the VACA network will be available
- You can filter by region, country, or search by airport code/name
Major hubs typically offer more flight options, so jumpseating to a hub airport can provide more route choices for your next flight.
3
Confirm Jumpseat Request
- Review your selected destination
- Click “Confirm” or “Submit” to process your jumpseat request
- Your pilot’s location will be instantly updated in the system
4
Book Your Next Flight
- After jumpseating, you can immediately book a new flight from your new location
- Your new airport will now show as your current location in the flight booking system
Jumpseat Restrictions
While the Jumpseat system offers flexibility, some limitations apply:Active Flight Assignment
Active Flight Assignment
You cannot use the Jumpseat system if you have an active flight assignment. You must first:
- Complete your current flight assignment, or
- Cancel your current booking through the Pilot Hub
Airport Availability
Airport Availability
You can jumpseat to any airport in the VACA network regardless of your pilot rank. This includes:
- All Air Canada mainline destinations
- Air Canada Express (Jazz) destinations
- Air Canada Rouge destinations
- Seasonal destinations (even when out of season)
Best Practices
Plan Your Routes
Use the jumpseat strategically to position yourself for interesting route options or to complete specific collections of routes
Hub Positioning
Consider jumpseating to major hubs like Toronto (YYZ), Montreal (YUL), or Vancouver (YVR) for maximum flight options
Event Preparation
Check upcoming events in the community calendar and use the jumpseat to position yourself for participation
Explore the Network
Use the jumpseat to explore different parts of the route network you might not normally fly to
FAQ
Does using the jumpseat count as a flight?
Does using the jumpseat count as a flight?
No, using the jumpseat does not count as a flight, earn flight hours, or contribute to your rank progression. It is simply a positioning tool.
Can I jumpseat to airports outside the VACA network?
Can I jumpseat to airports outside the VACA network?
No, you can only jumpseat to airports that are part of the Virtual Air Canada Airline route network.
Is there a limit to how often I can use the jumpseat?
Is there a limit to how often I can use the jumpseat?
There is no limit to how frequently you can use the jumpseat feature. You’re free to reposition as often as needed.
Will my aircraft follow me when I jumpseat?
Will my aircraft follow me when I jumpseat?
No, the jumpseat only repositions your pilot, not your aircraft. You’ll need to select an appropriate aircraft available at your new location when booking your next flight.